As New Year’s Eve rolls in, Arlington officials have issued a reminder to the public that lighting up the sky with fireworks is still illegal within city limits. Every year, across the nation, the sparkle and crackle come with a cost: injuries, deaths, and property damage, as well as often the side effects of these illicit displays. In Arlington, those who choose to defy the law may find themselves facing fines up to $2,000.
Despite the restrictions, the city is gearing up for the inevitable sound of celebration—boom, bangs, and the glow of fireworks, all in contravention of local regulation. To streamline the reporting of these prohibited festivities, the City of Arlington has set up a webpage where residents can log illegal fireworks activity directly. This initiative, according to the city’s announcement, aims to keep emergency phone lines clear for actual emergencies.
Starting from 7 p.m. tomorrow, through to 3 a.m. the following morning, Arlington residents can use this tool to let the Arlington Fire Department’s 9-1-1 Dispatch Center know about any nefarious pyrotechnic play. Usability of the form is strictly reserved for this period, a measure, perhaps, to manage the influx of expected reports…